ACI EUROPE calls for urgent EU aviation strategy to fix competitiveness and support decarbonisation goals

Speaking at ACI EUROPE’s 35th Annual Congress, Armando Brunini, ACI EUROPE President and CEO of SEA Milan Airports, issued a stark warning about the EU aviation sector’s declining competitiveness and its ability to meet decarbonisation targets. Highlighting the need for a comprehensive aviation policy reset, Brunini criticised the EU’s current approach, urging immediate action to align aviation with the bloc’s broader Competitiveness Compass and Roadmap.

Four key challenges to aviation competitiveness and decarbonisation

Brunini identified four major challenges undermining the sector:

Unbalanced climate policy:

He reaffirmed the sector’s commitment to decarbonisation, stating, “Our commitment to decarbonisation remains unwavering… But if we need the sticks… we also need the carrots.” He called for financial support and flexibility to manage the €1.3 trillion investment required to reach net zero, warning that no other global region imposes similar costs on aviation.

Punitive taxation:

Brunini criticised ongoing aviation taxes imposed by EU member states and the UK, pointing out that revenues are not reinvested in decarbonisation efforts. He noted a direct link between aviation taxes and reduced air connectivity, describing Europe as “an exception” globally.

Airport capacity constraints:

Europe already hosts half of the world’s most congested airports, yet governments are hesitant to support capacity expansion. Brunini warned this reluctance limits economic development opportunities, while global competitors are actively increasing capacity.

Regulatory barriers to innovation:

He argued that excessive EU regulation hinders airport innovation in security, safety, and the passenger experience, further weakening the region’s competitiveness.

Call for a new EU Aviation Strategy

Brunini stressed that the absence of a cohesive EU aviation strategy places the sector at risk of becoming “the next automotive sector” due to policy-driven decline. “It is difficult to understand why the European Commission is de facto sidelining our sector while actively working on a maritime strategy, a rail strategy and a tourism strategy,” he stated.

Putting aviation back on track

To futureproof the sector, Brunini outlined several key recommendations:

Prioritise capacity development:

He called for urgent revision of the outdated EU Airport Slot Regulation, strict enforcement of the EU Noise Balanced Approach, and changes to the European Investment Bank’s Climate Bank Roadmap to enable funding for airport capacity expansion. Brunini also highlighted the need for regulatory stability, especially around airport charges, to support long-term investments.

Support for SAF (Sustainable Aviation Fuel):

The forthcoming Sustainable Transport Investment Plan must include funding mechanisms for SAF, including earmarked ETS proceeds, post-2030 allowances, and financial institution backing. “Such inclusion will clearly condition our ability to deliver on our net zero Destination 2050 roadmap,” Brunini stated.

Sustain regional air connectivity:

He urged continued operating aid for smaller airports beyond 2027 to preserve regional cohesion under the EU State aid Guidelines.

Promote innovation and resilience:

Brunini emphasised the importance of ongoing support for SESAR R&D and deployment to enhance airport capacity and performance. He also called for a unified EU testing and certification framework for aviation security equipment and simplified procedures to support green technology rollouts.

Brunini concluded with a clear message: the EU must act swiftly to reset its aviation policy. Without this, Europe risks eroding not only the aviation sector’s competitiveness but also its own global standing and economic resilience.

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